The World

At least 47 people were killed in clashes between Communist guerrillas and army troops in the southern Philippines, military sources said in Manila. They said the clashes occurred in several parts of southern Mindanao Island in advance of the 16th anniversary of the formation of the insurgent New People's Army. Expecting more violence on the Friday anniversary, the commander of the armed forces, Lt. Gen. Fidel Ramos, placed the army on its highest state of alert, canceling all soldiers' leaves.